Was 'Casablanca' Really Filmed in Casablanca?

The idea that the classic 1942 film 'Casablanca' was filmed in the titular Moroccan city is a persistent myth that has persisted through decades of cinema history. However, the truth is far more intriguing and subtly layered. Let's delve into the actual filming locations and the historical context that makes this story even more fascinating.

Where Was 'Casablanca' Really Filmed?

Contrary to popular belief, the movie 'Casablanca' was not filmed in Casablanca at all. The film was shot almost entirely in Burbank, California, at Warner Brothers Studios. This was a rarity for the time, given the 1940s era's typically on-location filming practices.

Principal Photography and Location Shooting

The production team began filming on May 25, 1942, and completed filming on August 3, 1942. This period was significant because at the time, French Morocco, where the movie is set, was under the control of the Vichy French government, a pup government aligned with the Nazis. The European context is crucial to understanding why shooting in Casablanca would have been impossible during the summer of 1942.

Historical Background

By mid-1942, when the filming of 'Casablanca' was taking place, the area was not yet liberated. It was occupied by German soldiers, part of the broader Axis powers' control in North Africa. This context is important for collectors of movie memorabilia; those posters printed in French that were used in theaters in French Morocco are some of the most sought-after pieces for Casablanca fanatics.

The Single Exception: Van Nuys Airport

While the majority of the film was shot at Warner Brothers Studios, there was one notable exception: the scene showing Strasser's (Conrad Veidt) arrival was filmed at Van Nuys Airport in Los Angeles. This airport scene was the only exterior shot filmed outside of the studio. In the movie, this sequence serves as a crucial turning point, as Strasser arrives to disrupt Rick's (Humphrey Bogart) plans in the story.

Uncovering the Truth: The Studio's Role

Warner Brothers Studios in Burbank was a versatile and expansive set that allowed for the creation of the authentic Moroccan setting necessary for the film. The set used for Signor Ferrari's outdoor cafe still stands today on the Warner Brothers backlot, serving as a constant reminder of the movie's filming history. During the 1940s, it was common practice to film major sequences in studios, with occasional location shooting for authenticity.

The Making of 'Casablanca' in a Studio Setting

The entire picture was shot in the studio except for the sequence showing Strasser's arrival which was filmed at Van Nuys Airport and a few short clips of stock footage views of Paris. This was in line with the typical filmmaking practices of the era, where major studio productions used extensive sets and props to create the illusion of exotic locations.

Casablanca's Release and Timing

The initial release of 'Casablanca' on November 26, 1942, came shortly after the Allied invasion of North Africa (Operation Torch) on November 8, 1942. This timing was not coincidental. The film's popularity can be attributed, in part, to its relevance in the post-invasion context, where it served as a powerful narrative of resistance and escapism.

What About Modern Filming Practices?

It’s worth noting that while 'Casablanca' was a studio production, modern filmmakers have moved away from the practice of filming everything in a studio due to budget and practicality. It was not until the late 1970s that it became more common to film movies on locations overseas or even outside a studio. Even a film like 'Rocky' (1976), while featuring iconic scenes in Philadelphia, was often shot in a movie studio and the locations were later added in post-production.

The Last Remaining Set

Today, Warner Brothers Studios in Burbank remains a significant landmark for film enthusiasts and history buffs. The set used for Signor Ferrari's outdoor cafe is the last remnant of the film that is still intact on the WB backlot. Visitors can still see this historically significant set and gain a deeper understanding of the film's production.

Conclusion

The reality of 'Casablanca' being filmed almost entirely in Burbank provides a fascinating glimpse into the filmmaking practices of the 1940s. It also highlights the historical context that shaped the film's production and success. For fans of classic cinema, understanding the truth behind 'Casablanca's' filming locations adds a new layer of appreciation for this enduring masterpiece.